The victory of good over the evil is the central theme of the Dussehra (Vijaya Dashami, Dasara, or Dashain) celebration all over India. There is a religious belief that Lord Rama accompanied by his brother Lakshmana defeated the demon Lord Ravana during a colossal battle.
This annual festival involves many customs and traditions as well as large parades and outdoor fairs. There is a special place in the event for burning effigies of Lord Ravana in the evening bonfires.
All the celebrations can last for up to 10 days and include preparations of exceptional food and blessings of work-related and household tools. Primary symbols of Dussehra are paper and wood effigies of king Ravana, bonfires, and red spots painted on peoples' foreheads.
There are also some regional differences in celebrations. For example, in Kerala, people focus on education as well. Students worship Goddess Saraswati by wrapping their books and keeping it for two days in front of the idol together with sugarcane, jaggery, and roasted paddy.
In Maharashtra, people visit friends and relatives and exchange gifts. They exchange leaves of Aapta tree that symbolize gold and supposedly bring prosperity. Maharashtrians also consider the day favorable for new ventures like buying a new house, gadgets or vehicles.
Witness the swing of celebration in September–October, check the exact dates to be there at the right time.
